At Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2025, David Shields, Vice President of Groups and Private Experiences for Island Routes, shared a dynamic update on the company’s evolution as the Caribbean’s premier curator of immersive and bespoke travel experiences. With a renewed focus on authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters, Island Routes is moving beyond traditional tourism to offer tailor-made group and private journeys that tap into the very soul of the Caribbean.
Expanding Beyond the Ordinary
Island Routes has long been known for delivering unforgettable excursions across the region, but according to Shields, the company is strategically shifting towards deeper cultural immersion. “It’s not just about excursions anymore,” he said. “We’re tapping into local stories, local cuisine, cultural exchanges, and building partnerships with on-the-ground providers who can deliver something truly unique.”
This approach has led to new and exciting offerings in Antigua, including the ever-popular swimming with the pigs experience, and many more destination-specific tours designed to connect travelers with the real Caribbean.
Marketplace 2025: A Strategic Touchpoint
Shields emphasized that Caribbean Travel Marketplace remains the most important event for aligning buyers and suppliers within the region. “It’s about bringing the world to the Caribbean—and the Caribbean to the world,” he said. He also praised the decision to host the event in Antigua and Barbuda, noting that it allows smaller destinations to shine, showcase their value, and forge new opportunities in MICE and experiential travel.
MICE and Social Group Travel on the Rise
One of the fastest-growing segments for Island Routes is the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) sector—driven not only by corporate clients, but also by a surge in social groups, including:
- Destination weddings
- Wellness and corporate retreats
- Family reunions and celebrations
- Small cultural or culinary groups
In response, Island Routes has launched a Bespoke Experiences Division designed to cater to each group’s unique needs. “It’s not one-size-fits-all anymore,” Shields said. “Our clients want something personal—when they want it, how they want it, and why they want it. We’re crafting experiences based on those answers.”
New Markets, New Momentum
Island Routes continues to see robust interest from its core source markets—the United States and United Kingdom—but Shields noted notable expansion in three key areas:
- Canada: A significant uptick in group travel, aided by new airlift routes and demand from multiple Canadian cities.
- Continental Europe: With an eye beyond the U.K., Island Routes is exploring opportunities with travelers from Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
- The Indian Diaspora: A rapidly emerging segment driven by destination Indian weddings, family gatherings, and cultural exploration. Many travelers are coming from North America and the U.K., seeking Caribbean destinations that accommodate their traditions and expectations with flair and authenticity.
Looking Ahead: More Than Just Tours—A Movement
As Island Routes evolves, its focus on bespoke, immersive, and culturally enriching group experiences is setting a new standard for regional tourism. Whether it’s a private catamaran to a secluded cove, a culinary expedition led by local chefs, or a multi-day wedding celebration infused with Indo-Caribbean rituals, the goal is the same: create moments that linger long after the vacation ends.
“People want more than a tour—they want a transformative memory,” Shields said. “We’re here to deliver that.”
